Our "Employee Spotlight" series aims to showcase the unique personalities, talents, and stories that contribute to the success of our district. This section celebrates the incredible individuals who make our Lansing USD469 community thrive.
Shawn Smith, Inter-related Long-Term Sub
Question: How long have you worked in Lansing USD469?
Answer: 9 months
Question: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the role you have within the school district?
Answer: Years ago if someone told me that I would be in the education career field, I would have thought they were crazy. While I was in the Air Force, I was voluntold to be an instructor to teach aircraft maintenance. This is when I developed a love for teaching and thought to myself that maybe I could do this when I separate from the military. Fast forward 20 years later and here I am. I started as a para working in SBS. I was lucky enough to be accepted to the teacher apprenticeship program, and now I work as an inter-related special education long-term substitute. I still help in the SBS room, the high school psychologist, and attend school online full-time through WGU.
Question: What do you enjoy most about your role and the work you do in the school district?
Answer: First, and most importantly, I am thankful to the amazing staff that has taken the time from their busy schedules to provide the knowledge that they have given me. Secondly, I enjoy working with the kids very much. Every day is a new adventure, and you never know what the day is going to bring. I enjoy the fact that they keep me on my toes and I like helping the kids in any way I can.
Question: When you're not working, what hobbies or activities do you enjoy?
Answer: You can find me in my shop tinkering on my vehicles. If I am not in my shop, then I am out on a trail somewhere in my Jeep (probably breaking something on it) rock climbing or keeping it tame and riding easy trails, just checking out the beautiful nature and scenery that is all around us.
Question: What is something unusual about you that most people don't know?
Answer: I like the smell of diesel fuel and diesel exhaust (I don’t make a habit of smelling them though).
Question: Could you share a particularly heartwarming or memorable experience you've had while working with students or colleagues?
Answer: I have not had that heartwarming experience yet. I do take pride when a student feels comfortable enough to share something that is bothering them with me. I believe everyone needs to have someone they can voice something that is bothering them, and I am honored and don’t take it lightly when I am that person.
Question: What piece of advice would you like to offer to students to help them succeed and make the most of their educational journey?
Answer: “The only person you are destined to become is the person you decide to be.” – Ralph Waldo Emerson